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Richard O'Neal Obituary
But Dr. O"Neal also treated countless patients as a Fort Worth dentist and,orthodontist.
Dr. O'Neal died in his sleep Tuesday at his home in Parker County. He is believed to have died from an aneurism, Gayle O"Neal said.
While many remembered Dr. O'Neal for his athletic accomplishments, he was also remembered for leading the Fort Worth ISD board through a difficult transition when it hired Carl Candoli as the first superintendent from outside of the district. He was school board president from 1978 until he resigned on January 13, 1987.
"There had been a good ol' boy network and that got broken up by going outside and bringing in Carl Candoli," said former school board president Mollie Lasater, who was board vice president when Dr. O'Neal was board president.
"He was just someone you greatly admired," Lasater said. "You always felt he was true to his word. He was never duplicitous or political."
School board trustee and former school board president T.A. Sims was first elected to the board when Dr. O'Neal was board president. He said Dr. O'Neal's focus was always on improving the education of schoolchildren and that he helped restore trust.
"I think we had some things that reflected mismanagement and he was instrumental in really gaining the confidence of the community again," Sims said.
Dr. O'Neal first made his mark as an athlete at Poly High school, where they were state champs in basketball in 1952 and lost in the semifinals the next year. He also played baseball when Poly won the state title in 1953. He went on to gain accolades at TCU.
Dr. O'Neal was born Sept. 7, 1935 in Dallas.
He would graduate from Poly High School in 1953 and then would attend TCU, where he would graduate in 1957. He would marry his wife, Gayle Scott, on July 5, 1957, at the East Dallas Christian Church in Dallas.
In 1957, he also started school at the Baylor College of Dentistry, where he would graduate in 1962. He then spent two years in the Army before returning to Fort Worth to start his dentistry practice.
After practicing as a dentist for four years, Dr. O'Neal sold his practice and went to the Baylor College of Dentistry to become an orthodontist.,br>
While he was a regular at TCU's basketball games and other university-related events, Dr. O'Neal downplayed his athletic accomplishments. But he was thrilled when TCU honored him in 2010.
"He was floored and humbled and excited for his kids and grand kids to be there," Gayle O'Neal said.
Survivors include three sons, Scott O'Neal of Aledo, Matt O'Neal of Fort Worth and Patrick O'Neal of North Richland Hills, one daughter, Lisa Hughes of Fort Worth, 13 grandchildren.
Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Christ Chapel Bible Church, 3701 Birchman Ave., in Fort Worth. Visitation will be held from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Sunday at the Harveson-Cole Funeral Home, 702 8th Avenue, in Fort Worth.
Memorials: Global Ministries Foundation, Hyderabad, India. c/o box 1150 Cordova, Tenn. 38088-1150.
On memo line: In memory of Dr. Richard O'Neal. The donation will go to support Rev. Edgar Sathuluri, founder of Native Ministries.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard O'Neal
64 Entries
Cheryl gersbach waldrop
August 5, 2023
Richard was my second cousin. My grandmother's brothers son. He was my dentist for awhile when I was young and he was a very nice person whom I loved.
Sharon Campbell
April 16, 2019
I was a patient of Dr. O'neal many years ago. When I was 13 I had a severe over bite, and was made fun of at school. My parents could not afford braces. The school nurse found a way to make it happen and he took on my teeth with no charge. I was trying to find him and where he is at as he was a huge part of my life and I will be forever grateful to him. Saw this page and learned of his passing in my search. Please know I think he was a wonderful, kind, and generous man that changed my life. So many thank you's to Dr. O'neal. Condolences and comfort to your family.
Ken Bridges
January 2, 2015
Condolences to the O'Neals... I love u Guys
Ken Bridges
January 2, 2015
So sad:( Mr &Mrs O'Neal are the kindest parents of all my friends I grew up with on the east side.. They were always there for anyone whether it was good or bad.... RIP Dad;)
Annette Keeter
December 16, 2014
Gayle, I sent you a Christmas card the other day and it came back.. I was trying to find you when I found this.. This just makes me sick.. I so wish I could get in touch with you..
I think of you and Richard often.. Annette Keeter
Jaelyn Ritchie
April 11, 2014
Reading this for the umpteenth time still gives me a shiver up my spine, but in a remarkable way it still, and always will give me goosebumps that i had the honor to say "that's my grandpa" no matter how long ago it was then, now, or 50 years from today, i will always miss him and love him unconditionally. Thank you Mawmaw (Gayle O'Neal) for bringing this wonderful man in my life i thank god everyday for making this humble man a big part in my life. Forever my hero Pawpaw (Richard) is and always will be loved more than my words or anyones words could ever explain. I love you so much Pawpaw. My time with him was short, but will never be forgotten. We had a special bond right of the bat.
Renee Robertson
April 5, 2014
My son and I adored Dr. O'Neal. He did a beautiful job on his many patients. He was a remarkable man that I saw a few years back donating his time to help school children care for their teeth. He was indeed a wonderful and greatly admired person. My prayers are with the family.
Charles and Janie Harrison
January 18, 2014
Mrs O'Neal, we are so saddened to hear of Dr O'Neal's passing. He was such a great man - fun and humble. He always did what was right. We were with him on the property in Aledo. He was also our daughter's orthodontist. I know you miss him so much. Until heaven, when we see him again.
Tami Stewart Smith
January 7, 2014
Dr. O'Neal was my orthodontist from 6 to 14. He was a wonderful man. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Gayle ONeal
December 8, 2013
To all these precious people expressing their love for my beloved Richard, I thank you.. the loss is unspeakable but your words and prayers take away some of the sting.. He was beloved because he gave his heart to eveyone who knew him.. how blessed I am that he chose me to share his life.. the best is yet to come.. God bless you all. Gayle tO gOD BE aLL GLORY
Tom Edwards
September 26, 2013
So sorry to here of Dr. O'Neals passing. Your family 's in our prayers
September 24, 2013
May God bless and comfort you and your family in this time of sorrow.
You are in thought and prayer.
Becky C.
Janice S
September 24, 2013
Dr. O"Neal was my Othodontist 16 years ago. He always had a bright heart-warming smile when you came in and would remember your family members names just from conversation while in the chair. I have ran into Dr. O'neal a couple of times over the course of the years and he never changed, still remembering me and feeling like he still cares. What a blessing to have known Dr. O'Neal. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Lisa Giddens
September 24, 2013
Dr. O'Neal was a caring and wonderful man. When my husband and I moved to Ft. Worth to go to seminary, we came with faith that God would provide a job for me. Did He ever! I could not have asked for a better boss! He truly cared about his employees and patients. His love for God and his family was evident in his daily living. Our sincere sympathy to Gayle, Scott, Matt, Patrick, Lisa and to all of your families. You are in our hearts and prayers.
Love,
Lisa and Clay Giddens
Snyder, TX
Barbara and Gene Gutierrez
September 24, 2013
Dear Gayle, What beautiful friends and role models you and Dick were for us when we came to Fort Worth many years ago. May God continue to bless you and your family.
Amanda Shearman
September 24, 2013
My thoughts and prayers for the O'Neal family during this time. May your memories keep him alive forever in your hearts.
Martha James
September 24, 2013
Gayle, when I read of Richard's death, I could not believe what I was reading. Seems that men like him should live forever, well, he is truly now. As such a lovely couple who love the Lord intensely, you were both such an inspiration to me when I first attended Christ Chapel Church, then more so as the years rolled on.
If there is anything I can do personally to help lighten your burdens now, please know that I am only a phone call away,
Leslie Bales
September 23, 2013
My prayers are with Dr. O'Neal's family. What an inspiring man. His kindness to my daughter Karon was a blessing.
Pat Pendley
September 23, 2013
Dr. O'Neal, you were a wonderful orthodontist and a very caring human being. My daughter always looked forward to her orthodontic appointments with you, and we all appreciate your professionalism and your compassion. God bless you and those you leave behind.
Pat Pendley
Kim Rice Smith
September 23, 2013
Sweet Gayle, I will always remember how you touched my life at a very fragile time. my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during the days ahead. There are no words to convey what a special love you shared. take care and know that so many people have been touched by the example of you both.
Donald Peacock
September 23, 2013
I was saddened when I first heard of Richard's sudden death. My last time to see or hear him was when he spoke at the 100th reunion of Poly High School. Richard believed in his God, his family, church, his community, and other happenings in his life examples. He was not only a respected person locally he was loved by many and set examples of working to better this community, state and actually the US, as he was a perfect example of what this country needs much more of, a man that stands behinds his beliefs and always there to help others. May God bless all of his family and many friends in their loss of a wonderful man.
George J. Petrovich Jr.
September 23, 2013
My sincere condolence to the O'Neal family on Richard's passing and the memory of his accomplishments and contributions will not be forgotten.
Robbie Jones
September 23, 2013
Dr Richard O'Neal was a wonderful kind man and doctor . I will praying for his family as they go through this very difficult time . Robbie Jones
September 23, 2013
Dear Gayle My prayers are with you daily. I will miss Richard's sweet smile and friendly hello on Sunday morning. Bless you all. Jane Parke
Jim Swink
September 23, 2013
Richard was one of the greatest Horn Frogs ever. He was a role model for all of us.
Lisa & Larry Lock
September 22, 2013
Oh, Gayle-- our thoughts & prayers are with you & your entire family. Your sweet, kind husband certainly had a "life well lived". He was known by so many names: husband, father, friend , civic leader, athlete, elder, Doctor, Christian -- and all of them good names. He will be missed, but what a legacy he left. Love & prayers,
Kelli Stewart Berry
September 22, 2013
Rest in peace Dr Oneal. He was my orthodontist and I will never forget when he asked "what are those crocodile tears?" when he was putting those bands around my molars. Awesome man and prayers for your family during this most difficult time.
September 22, 2013
Im deeply sadden for the whole O'Neal families loss! Gayle, Scott, mat, Patrick, and my precious friend Lisa, I love ya!
September 22, 2013
Much love to Gayle and the family from all of your extended family. Kathy O'Neal Childers & family, Jim O'Neal, and Sarah and James O'Neal
Lisa & Mary Lou Patterson
September 22, 2013
As friends of Lisa's at Handley Middle School and EHHS, we want you to know we are thinking of you at this difficult time.
Shirley Eubanks
September 20, 2013
Very nice man
remember him fondly
RIP
thoughts and prayers for his family
Carol Dean Crabtree Peacock=Poly Class of 1954
September 20, 2013
I will never forget the first time I saw Richard as I walked thru the halls of Poly. Being so tall, he was always easy to see. I, like many of us younger girls, were silently in love with him. He always had a great smile and said hello, even if he didn't know who you were.
My prayers are with his wife, children and grandchildren. May God hold you all in the Palm of His Hands.
Willie and Mary Bane
September 20, 2013
Dear Gayle, Our hearts ache for you and your family. We pray that God will wrap His loving arms around you and give you peace. We love you. Willie and Mary Bane
john shergold
September 20, 2013
Dr. O'Neal was a inspiration to me while I was his patient and student at TCU. Dr. O'Neal was instrumental in my success as a person and human being, taking a personal interest in my college career and afterwards graduating from law school. He was a kind, decent, and giving person who always was a positive influence on so many and gave his time to help. I am a better person for having his guidance those years ago and my heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. He was a true leader and lived by the highest ethical standards.
Phil and Linda Reese
September 20, 2013
Gayle, Everyone who knew Richard mourns with you and your family at the earthly loss of your sweet husband. A remarkable man; his eyes were always bright with Christ's love. Our prayers are with you.
Ann Scbieferstein
September 20, 2013
Dearest Gayle, my love and prayers are with you. You and Dick were such a happy part of days at TCU. I admired you both and you have always been special. I pray the tears will, soon, mix with smiles of "mem'ries sweet, comrades true." I love you.
BILL AND WALLY HAMPTON
September 20, 2013
Dear Gayle
It is well with his soul>How we will miss his big smile and his presence each Sunday morning>
We will pray for you and your family> May GOD"S presence surround you in the days ahead and until you are together again> WE LOVE YOU> Bill and Wally Hamptoni
September 20, 2013
Gayle, We are shocked and sadden by news of Richard's passing. When we talked about him at the luncheon, you were telling me how he was out golfing and doing great. He was truly a special person, and the two of you were such a gift to everyone who knew you. Thanks for the good times at TCU and the later years. May God's grace and peace be with you and your family now and in the days to come. Our prayers will continue for you all. Barbara and John Clark
Larry Alderson
September 20, 2013
I attended Poly High School and T.C.U. with Dick and and can attest that he was always a true gentleman, something that cannot be said of many. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest sympathy and prayers go to his family.
Nina Martin Brackeen
September 20, 2013
Gayle, You and Richard have blessed so many lives in so many ways, including mine. My thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort are with you at this time.
September 20, 2013
Richard lives with our Lord Jesus now. What a blessing to know him--the Clay Family
Kay Doyle
September 20, 2013
Dear Sweet Precious Gayle. We are praying for you during this time but know that you are so strong in the Lord. What a wonderful man. He will be truly missed here on earth but we will look him up in heaven for sure when we get there!!! We love you, Mike and Kay Doyle
September 20, 2013
Dr. O'Neal "tortured" my brothers and I for years with braces and all manner of oral contraptions, but to this day (and we're in our 40's, so it was a while back), we still get compliments on what a nice job he did. I remember him always having a smile and a positive uplifting spirit. As a former patient and fellow TCU alum, I will miss you, Dr. O! God grant your family peace and comfort at this time of your sudden passing.
Marla Morris
Marian Scarborough Massey
September 20, 2013
Add the Scarboroughs to the list of Dick's admirers in school, in practice, and in all his accomplishments.
Kyle Mabe
September 20, 2013
Dr O'Neal was a close friend of my dad's since his high school days. I remember hearing the stories from my dad of times he and Dr. O (along with a couple of others)shared back then. They are great times my dad cherishes.
I remember the towering man who was my orthodontist as a kid. During the two and a half years I went to him, he was always nice and made sure was not in discomfort with my braces.
I asked him once how tall he was, he replied "5'18" (I believe) He was very attentive to his patients and how he ever managed to get his basketball player large hands in my narrow mouth to work on my braces was pure talent!
Martha Brothers
September 20, 2013
A great and Godly man is welcomed into heaven......and our Harvester's Sunday School class lost a wonderful friend. I will surely miss his smile and happy demeanor. God bless you, Gayle and your family. Love, Martha
September 20, 2013
Dear Gayle,
What a witness you and Dick have been to Dee and me for so many years. You have our love and prayers and I am
assured you feel God's presence and comfort. To God be the Glory.
Stephanie Braungardt-Wiggins
September 20, 2013
The Wiggins and Braungardts are saddened by the loss of such a wonderful person! Dr. O was a great neighbor, orthodontist, and friend! Blessings and prayers to Gayle, Scott, Matt, Patrick, and Lisa!
Sondra Markum Owens
September 20, 2013
Dr. O'Neal was a wonderful man, and started being my orthodontist when I was 8. He made the orthodontic process a lot easier with his kind and caring nature. When it was time to start my oldest son in orthodontics, he was the first person I wanted to treat my son, but he had moved into another journey in helping others. He made quite an impression on my family, and he will be missed by many. Blessings and prayers to his friends and family.
Scott Wilcox
September 20, 2013
"Precious in the sight of The Lord is the death of one of His saints." Love you Gayle! Praying for you and your family.
Kathy and Scott Wilcox
Jolene Mershon
September 20, 2013
Dr. O'Neil was a special person and a wonderful dentist. He and Gayle lived next door to my folks, the Welchs, for several years and he was my kids dentist. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family. Dr. O'Neil made this world a little brighter for a lot of people.
September 20, 2013
I Remember Richard from high school as a student and basketball player. He and Gayle with family lived in east FW when we were all young married. They were a great family and great friends with my cousin Pat Wadlington. Galye we will have you and the children in our prayers. Eleene Rogers Hoskins Upchurch, Santa Anna, TX
Mary Sharpe
September 20, 2013
Precious Gayle, I can't count the ways in which you and Richard blessed my life! When I look at my children's smiles, memories of visits with Richard, baking lemon meringue pies for him and being a thankful recipient of your witness to the glory of God fill my heart. Even as a BSF Teaching Leader, the faith you and Richard shared surrounded your lectures as if he were a physical part of it. As so many have said, I will miss his amazing hugs! And, as my daughter Elaine said, "He lives on in thousands of smiles. That's a pretty good legacy." It will take all eternity for Richard to lay all of his crowns at Jesus feet! I love you so very much.
W. R. (Bob) Barnes
September 20, 2013
Dr. O made the best smiles in town. I admired his gentle giant nature, his kindness and his love for TCU. What a class act. Much sympathy to his family.
O.S. Hawkins
September 20, 2013
Will always love you Dick O'neal...my childhood sports hero and thru the yrs my Hero in the Faith...your dedication to all things good and godly will always inspire me...I will see you again "in the morning" OS Hawkins
Nancy Altaras
September 20, 2013
Sad to see another dentist pass away. From what I read in his obituary, he was always trying to improve things, and always trying to do his best, whether being on a board, athletics, and his dental practice. Guess my father was right, "Dentistry is hard work, and will kill you", but he knew it was a noble and worthwhile profession too. My heart goes out to the family, on their loss, but they should take comfort in all the people Dr. O'Neal helped too! Another member of the dental family that will be missed terribly.
September 20, 2013
He was just part of the nicest couple you ever met. Many great memories to a great Eastsider! Becky Vastine Haskin
September 19, 2013
It was my honor to know Dick he was such a special person. I know he is with our Lord in Heaven.
September 19, 2013
Dear O'Neal family, your father and husband was the best friend and doctor anyone could have. He loved the Lord with words and actions. I am sad and shocked, but grateful for his life at the same time. We will pray for you. Trey and Jennifer Loftin
Louise Keffler
September 19, 2013
So sad for Gayle and her family
Love to you all
Louise
Tom & Shirley Coston
September 19, 2013
Gayle, We are in NC. We are praying for you and your family. Though we do not morn as those without hope, we still miss the physical presence of those we love so much. My heart hurts for you in the loss of Richard. Tom and I both count it a blessing from God that we got to know him. I will miss his hug on Sunday morning and hearing his warm laugh at our dinner table. Love you, Tom and Shirley Coston
Leslie Allcorn-Lynch
September 19, 2013
So sorry to hear of his passing. May all family & friends find peace during this time.
Sharon Monger
September 19, 2013
Saddened to learn of Dr O'Neal's passing. My sympathy to his family. What a great guy! Fort Worth was blessed to have him for many reasons. Thanks to Dr O'Neal, I'm still enjoying my grown kids beautiful smiles.
Kimberly Jimenez Collum
September 19, 2013
I'm so sad that Dr. O'neal passed away. What a huge loss to so many people. What an incredible man. I owe my "beautiful smile" to him. He fixed my teeth after a horrible accident when I was 4 years old. Last time we saw him and his wife, we were at Olive Garden and he pointed to his teeth, gave me a thumbs up and said, "I know that smile anywhere"! I was so shocked!! He bought our entire meal. I was with mom and dad and he remembered them too. Dr. O'Neal, hug Jesus for me, we will smile together one day. ?
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